Second Medical Opinions
In her recent entry, Betsy wrote of second medical opinions when patients were dealing with difficult medical issues.
Indeed, the patient has the right to a second medical opinion; more importantly, the patient should feel entirely comfortable in saying to his or her oncologist that a second opinion is desired. Getting a second opinion not only means "good medicine". It may add a note of reassurance, a most powerful tonic.
If the two oncologists disagree, do not be distressed. That gives you time to think, to ask lots of questions and then, make the decision that is most comfortable for you. The second opinion may afford you options that you did not know to exist.
I have been in medicine for many years. In my experience, the most outstanding physicians were the ones who were entirely comfortable and cordial in helping the patient obtain a second opinion.
Mort